What’s the Beef With EU Bikes and 100-Percent Motorcycle Tax?

The American Motorcyclist Association has issued an "Action Alert" to implore riders to tell President Trump to oppose a proposed 100-percent tariff on certain motorcycles imported from the European Union. The tax would affect motorcycles with engine displacements between 51cc and 500cc—which would include a vast array of street bikes, scooters, and off-road machines.

The proposed tax stems from a beef between the EU and the US regarding what the United States Trade Representative (USTR) deems “unfair trade practices.” The politics are convoluted, of course, but the bottom line is the USTR is trying to get back at the EU for its 20-year ban on most US beef products. The matter seemed resolved with a compromise reached in 2009, but late last year the USTR, at the behest of the US beef industry, concluded the compromise had not gone far enough to balance the beef trade, and in retaliation issued an official request for public comment on further tariffs on certain EU-imported items—mainly foodstuffs.

But tacked on to the bottom of the lengthy list of assorted cheeses, sausages, and nuts is this curious line: "Motorcycles (incl. mopeds) and cycles, fitted with reciprocating internal-combustion piston engine with cylinder capacity of over 50 cc but not over 500 cc." (It also called for a tax on hair clippers; you can read the official government notice here: www.regulations.gov.

The AMA urges riders to tell the president to reject the tax on the simple grounds that trade disputes within the agricultural industry should not be solved with sanctions against non-agricultural products. “Specifically, a 100 percent, or higher, tariff on these motorcycles ... [which] will cause serious and potentially irreversible harm to American small- and medium-sized business owners selling the vehicles,” the AMA states. “Additionally, consumers will be denied access to certain models of competition and recreational motorcycles that contribute to the lifestyle and wellbeing of millions of American families.”

Affected manufacturers would include: Aprilia; Beta; BMW; Ducati; Fantic; Gas Gas; Husqvarna; KTM; Montesa; Piaggio; Scorpa; Sherco; TM; and Vespa.

The USTR is accepting public comments on the matter via email until January 30. With the AMA's help, voicing your opinion on the matter is easy. CLICK HERE to tell your senators and representatives here.